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Questions and Answers
What does the phrase 'this ain't her mouth' suggest in chapter 17?
It shows how he is struggling to make the connection between the murderous crime and the woman he kisses regularly on the mouth.
What does the repetition of 'no' indicate in the quote about the print?
It creates a tone of denial as he blocks out what he is seeing and hearing.
What is being questioned in the rhetorical question about the woman with a mouth that was not Sethe's?
He is questioning everything he knows about the woman he loves and why he loves her.
What does the list in the quote about recognizing the color signify?
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What do the animalistic metaphors describing Sethe's actions convey?
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What is ironic about the phrase 'sweet conviction' in regards to Sethe's past?
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Study Notes
Chapter 17 Key Quotes and Analysis
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"this ain't her mouth"
- Highlights a profound struggle to reconcile the loving woman he knows with the act of violence she committed.
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"The print meant nothing to him so he didn't even glance at it."
- Repetition of denial reflects his desire to escape the grim reality, prioritizing a hopeful future with Sethe over acknowledging painful truths.
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"So who was this woman with a mouth that was not Sethe's"
- Rhetorical questioning indicates deep uncertainty about the identity of the woman he loves, contrasting her calmness with the violence surrounding her.
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"Look every Negro learned to recognize along with his ma'am's tit."
- The list emphasizes the gradual accumulation of oppressive power among whites, likening their actions to a flag of righteousness, declaring their control over slaves.
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"how she flew, snatching up her children like a hawk on the wing"
- Animalistic metaphors underscore Sethe's fierce protectiveness and mental turmoil, illustrating her instinct to shield her children from danger.
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"sweet conviction in them almost made him wonder if it had happened at all"
- The phrase "sweet conviction" carries irony, as it refers to a painful past where Sethe’s actions created a mental fracture, emphasizing the weight of disbelief in her violent history.
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Description
Explore the key quotes and their analyses from Chapter 17 of 'Beloved' in this flashcard set. Each card presents critical insights into the text, helping you understand the complex emotions and themes at play in this chapter. Perfect for students preparing for A Level English Literature exams.
